How to Apply for TANF in Missouri
Missouri calls its TANF program simply Temporary Assistance (TA), and before you can even submit an application the Family Support Division requires you to watch a short orientation video explaining program rules. From there you apply online, by mail, or by fax, but you also have to submit two extra forms — an Orientation Acknowledgement and a Personal Responsibility Plan — alongside the main application, and processing can take up to 10 days.
This site is an independent, non-government TANF directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by any state or federal government agency. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
Quick Answer
In Missouri, you apply for TANF through Family Support Division, online or by phone. The Family Support Division says processing an application and its documents can take up to 10 days before you get an eligibility decision letter, and approved households receive their first benefit within 45 days.
What You'll Need
- Social Security numbers (or agreement to apply) for household members
- Proof of Missouri residency
- Information on resources and income
- Completed IM-1TA application
- Signed Orientation Acknowledgement and Personal Responsibility Plan
-
1
Check eligibility
You must be the parent or guardian of a child under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school), live in Missouri, have resources worth $1,000 or less (not counting your home and one vehicle), fall under the current income limit, and have or agree to apply for a Social Security number for each household member.
-
2
Watch the required orientation video
Missouri requires applicants to watch the Temporary Assistance orientation video on dss.mo.gov before applying.
-
3
Complete the application
Apply online through the IM-1TA/LF form at formsportal.mo.gov, or download, print, and complete the paper IM-1TA application (available in English or Spanish).
-
4
Submit required forms with your application
Along with your application, submit the Temporary Assistance Orientation Acknowledgement, a Personal Responsibility Plan, and any required Child Support forms.
-
5
Submit everything to Family Support Division
Upload documents at mydssupload.mo.gov, mail them to Family Support Division, P.O. Box 2700, Jefferson City, MO 65102, or fax them to 573-526-9400. You may be contacted for an interview if one is needed.
-
6
Participate in Missouri Work Assistance
If approved, you must take part in employment and training services through the Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) Program, which sets goals to help you move off cash assistance.
Submit Your Application
Need help before your application is processed?
The Family Support Division says processing an application and its documents can take up to 10 days before you get an eligibility decision letter, and approved households receive their first benefit within 45 days. If your family needs money sooner, most states offer a faster, one-time emergency payment.
See emergency & one-time assistance →Compare Other States
TANF rules, income limits, and benefit amounts are set state by state. These share Missouri's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the same program.
Helpful Guides
TANF Eligibility & Frequently Asked Questions
Income limits, time limits, and work requirements, answered in plain language.
Learn more →How Much Does TANF Pay? Benefit Amounts Explained
How your payment is calculated, a real worked example, and how the amount scales by family size.
Learn more →TANF Income Limits by State
See each state's own income limit and maximum monthly benefit, side by side.
Learn more →How to Use Your TANF EBT Card
How to withdraw cash, avoid ATM fees, and what to do if your card is lost or stolen.
Learn more →TANF Work Requirements Explained
Hours, activities, exemptions, and how strictly states actually enforce this.
Learn more →What Is TANF?
What the program covers, who runs it, and how it varies by state.
Learn more →TANF Kinship Care & Relative Caregiver Benefits
Child-only TANF grants for grandparents and relatives raising a child — and how they differ from a regular case.
Learn more →TANF vs. SNAP: Is TANF the Same as Food Stamps?
How the two programs differ, and whether you can get both.
Learn more →